Lawrence County, Indiana – A joint narcotics investigation in southern Indiana has resulted in the arrest of a Mitchell man facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he was caught dealing methamphetamine and fentanyl while armed with a handgun.
Multi-Agency Drug Investigation Leads to Arrest
According to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, investigators began looking into alleged drug activity involving Tanner Wessell, 34, of Mitchell, in early December. Tips received by law enforcement indicated Wessell was suspected of distributing methamphetamine across Lawrence County and nearby areas.
Detectives from the Indiana State Police Drug Enforcement Section, working alongside the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, launched a multi-week investigation that included surveillance and other investigative techniques to track the alleged drug operation.
Traffic Stop on State Road 37
Authorities said the investigation reached a turning point on December 22, when Wessell was observed driving southbound on State Road 37 from Monroe County into Lawrence County. He was operating a 2006 Mini Cooper, according to officials.
Deputies reported observing multiple traffic infractions and conducted a traffic stop near Judah Road, just north of State Road 37.
K-9 Alert Leads to Drug and Gun Seizure
During the stop, Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office Captain Andrew Phillips deployed a K-9 unit. The dog reportedly gave a positive alert for narcotics, prompting a search of the vehicle.
According to law enforcement, deputies allegedly discovered:
- Approximately 37 grams of methamphetamine
- About four grams of fentanyl
- A loaded 9mm handgun
The combination of suspected narcotics and a firearm significantly elevated the seriousness of the case, investigators said.
Search Warrant Executed at Mitchell Residence
Following the traffic stop, investigators obtained a search warrant for Wessell’s residence in Mitchell. Authorities stated that additional evidence consistent with drug dealing activities was seized during the search, further supporting the charges.
Specific details about the items recovered at the residence were not released, but officials confirmed they were connected to the ongoing narcotics investigation.
Charges Filed and Jail Booking
Wessell was taken into custody and booked into the Lawrence County Jail on multiple felony charges. According to officials, the charges include:
- Possession of methamphetamine with intent to deal
- Possession of narcotics while armed with a firearm
- Unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon
Several of the charges range from Level 2 to Level 5 felonies under Indiana law, reflecting the quantity of drugs involved and the presence of a firearm.
Ongoing Drug Enforcement Efforts
The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the arrest was the result of cooperation between local and state agencies and remains part of broader efforts to combat the distribution of dangerous narcotics, including fentanyl, in southern Indiana communities.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid significantly more potent than heroin, has been linked to a growing number of overdoses statewide, making enforcement actions like this a priority for law enforcement agencies.
Presumption of Innocence
As with all criminal cases, authorities stressed that all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
How to Report Drug Activity
Anyone with information related to illegal drug activity in Lawrence County is encouraged to contact the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the department’s official website or mobile app.
Law enforcement officials say community cooperation remains a critical part of disrupting drug distribution networks and improving public safety.
If you have insights or concerns about drug activity in your area, share your experiences in the comments below.
